192. How to Address the Alien Question

8/1/2025

In this episode of The STEM Space, we tackle a question that sparks curiosity in classrooms everywhere: “Do aliens exist?” We explore how educators can address this big question in a way that inspires critical thinking and scientific inquiry. From the famous Drake Equation to the intriguing concept of Von Neumann probes we’ll unpack the science and the imagination behind the search for extraterrestrial life. Whether your students are budding astronomers or just fascinated by the unknown, we’ll give you tools to turn their curiosity into meaningful STEM discussions.

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Links from the Show:

Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes

• 191. What STEM Teachers Should Do In the Summer

• 96. Chat with a Chemist ft Dr. Danna Freedman

• 148. AI Tips for Teachers ft. Lauren Kelly

Vivify STEM Blog Posts

• A Search for Life: Astro-Rover STEM Challenge

• Best Free AI Tools for Educators

• Scientific Method vs. Engineering Design Process: Which is used in STEM learning?

Vivify STEM Lessons

• Astro-Rover Space Science & Engineering Design Unit

• FREE! - Explore the Universe: Star Party Astronomy Scavenger Hunt

• FREE! - Host a Classroom Debate

Other STEM Resources

• SETI Institute

• The Drake Equation

• The Fermi Paradox: Where are all the aliens?

• Von Neumann Probes

• The Berserker Hypothesis: The Darkest Explanation Of The Fermi Paradox

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